By Blake Jackson
Flooding has caused major challenges for agricultural producers across Missouri, affecting crops, livestock, land, and farm infrastructure.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is offering technical guidance and financial assistance programs to help farmers and ranchers recover from weather-related losses.
“USDA has a suite of programs to support farmers and ranchers as they recover from disasters,” said Farm Production and Conservation Under Secretary Richard Fordyce.
“I encourage impacted producers to contact their local USDA Service Center to report losses and learn more about program options available to assist in their recovery from crop, land, infrastructure, and livestock losses and damages.”
Through the USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA), producers may qualify for several disaster assistance programs. The Livestock Indemnity Program (LIP) can provide compensation for livestock deaths beyond normal levels or animals sold at reduced prices due to flood-related impacts.
Eligible producers must submit documentation of losses and file a notice of loss with FSA by March 1, 2027, for 2026 calendar year damages.
The Emergency Assistance for Livestock, Honeybees, and Farm-Raised Fish Program (ELAP) may help cover losses involving livestock feed, grazing, honeybee colonies, hive damage, and farm-raised fish feed or inventory losses. Producers seeking ELAP assistance must also complete required applications and submit notices of loss by the March 1, 2027 deadline.
Orchardists and nursery tree growers affected by flooding may receive support through the Tree Assistance Program (TAP). The program helps eligible producers restore damaged trees, bushes, and vines. Applications must generally be submitted within 90 days after the disaster event or when damage becomes visible.
“Impacted producers should timely report all crop, livestock and farm infrastructure damages and losses to their local FSA county office as soon as possible,” said Ronnie Russell, State Executive Director for FSA in Missouri.
“As you evaluate your operation, take time to gather important documents you may need to get assistance, including farm records, herd inventory, receipts and pictures of damages or losses.”
USDA also provides emergency and operating loans for producers facing financial difficulties after disasters. These loans can help replace damaged property, purchase supplies, cover expenses, or refinance farm-related debt.
Additional support is available through the Farm Storage Facility Loan Program, which offers low-interest financing for repairing, replacing, or upgrading storage facilities and equipment.
Missouri farmers affected by flooding are encouraged to contact their local USDA Service Center to report damages and explore available recovery options through FSA and NRCS programs.
Photo Credit: usda-farm-service-agency
Categories: Missouri, Government & Policy